Bubble Up Blog

Name Bubbles Turns Three!

2012-01-17T08:33:00.000-05:00

Wow, what a year! We wanted to share the celebration with you and give you a quick run-down on the changes that have taken place for the Name Bubbles Team. Our biggest change; we moved! Name Bubbles now has room to grow and grow we did. This year we doubled in size. Just months ago, desks and people were lined up in a hallway and team members would have to squeeze to get by.

Because we were growing so quickly, we considered and began shaping the culture of the company. It is our belief that happy employees will care about their work, which ensures a quality product and happy customers. We’ve also hired a full-time customer service representative to help you with questions or place an order over the phone. We are creating our Bubbles from the “Words We Work By”, which are our Mission Statement and the Core Values of our company. Both can be found in our About Us page.

One of the initiatives we are most proud of is our Giving Program. In 2010, the company donated $10,000 dollars to Water For People. In 2011, we created a Bag Tag Campaign that enabled our customers to take part. With every bag tag purchased, Name Bubbles donated $1.25 to the organization, by the end of the year the donations totaled an additional $14,000.

We have a lot of exciting plans for 2012. Please stay tuned and as always, THANK YOU for choosing Name Bubbles for your family members. We appreciate your business and love making your customized bubbles.

Michelle Brandriss

Name Bubbles Top Ten For 2011

2012-01-02T11:45:00.000-05:00

The Name Bubbles Team wishes you and your family a wonderful 2012!

As we begin a new year together, we thought you might get a kick out of the top ten serious and silly things that Bubbled Up for us in 2011:

1 - Toms - We love these shoes, but more importantly we love how the company's One for One program helps kids of all ages throughout the world. Stay tuned for their super cute ballet flats coming out this spring, we can't wait!

http://www.toms.com/

2 - Water for People - Is an amazing organization that provides safe water for communities all over the world. They were our partnered non-profit for Name Bubbles' 2011 Bag Tag Campaign and we were able to donate over $14,000 dollars to the organization through your participation!

http://www.waterforpeople.org/

3 - Pinterest - A new and addicting social media tool, this site encourages you to 'pin' images of things you like to your own boards and share our finds with others. It's quick, easy and will pull you in from day one! http://pinterest.com/

4 - Fitbit - Lauren Rose, our Director of New Business Development, received her Fitbit for Christmas and has become such an advocate for the device that she has started a Fitbit community for Working Moms. http://www.fitbit.com/group/229CJP or to learn more about this great health tool visit, http://www.fitbit.com/

5 - Teal/Turquoise - Have you ever noticed that everyone looks great in the color turquoise? Well, we did and it quickly become our favorite color of the year. We found it in earrings, rain boots, tees, handbags, wallets, and accessories in 2011.

6 - Infinity Scarf - If you live in mild or cold conditions, an infinity scarf is a great accessory that adds style to any outfit. With the different textures and colors, we hope these scarves will be with us for years to come.

http://etsy.me/infinity_scarf

7 - Emerald Cocoa Roast Almonds - Yum! These little nuts help tame those afternoon sweet treat cravings. They made the list because they're our healthy go to snack and someone always has a box of them handy.

http://emeraldnuts.com/

8 - Sophie The Giraffe - We find this classic chew toy hard to resist. Both cute and a little bit creepy, Sophie is sold just about everywhere. Who can argue with a baby's need to chomp on the foot or head of this quasi-cute giraffe? http://sophiegiraffeusa.com/ or http://www.giggle.com/Sophie-The-Giraffe/616324,default,pd.html

9 - Royal Wedding - How could you not get swept up in the Royal Wedding? The weeks of media build up gave us endless opportunities to discuss marriage, dresses, and more. When the big day finally came, oh the hats! Those whimsical and wonderful choices kept us giggling for days. We loved it all, and of course we wish a long and happy marriage for the royal couple!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-11767495

10 - Tasteology - So, the reason why the Fitbit is making such a hit at Name Bubbles is because we are also food lovers! We often find ourselves perusing this site and using the tasty recipes at home . Thank you to everyone who posts those family recipes and what tricks you've discovered in the kitchen that we can all enjoy!

http://tasteologie.notcot.org/

Labels That Keep Winter Gear Coming Home

2011-11-30T12:08:00.001-05:00

My eyes were barely open when I heard my husband discussing our weekend plans. The fact that it’s the first weekend of December means the Brandriss Bunch will be hitting the slopes. No more Saturday sleep-in for Mom. Skiing is what we do this time of year, every year; it’s something that means so much to my husband.

Even though I’ve been doing the ski family routine for years, it’s always a bit of a culture shock for me. Once I am on the hill I love it, but making it all happen at 6:30 am every Saturday morning is a lot for me. I’ve finally learned a trick or two but most of my prep happens the night before. My husband, on the other hand, amazes me…he usually whips up pancakes, dances a jig or two and loads up the equipment before my son, Cooper, and I clear the morning fog from our minds.

I married a ski fanatic, he grew up racing and lived as a ski bum in Colorado for a couple of years in his twenties. Our vacations and holidays almost always include snow. When I told him that Name Bubbles made the Vacation Issue of Ski Magazine he immediately took me out to dinner to celebrate. In his mind, Name Bubbles hit the “Big Time”! Over the course of dinner I made the mistake of mentioning how I had sent labels via FedEx with his name on them but they had already taken the photo for the issue. He was devastated! “You mean, I could have had My Name in Ski Magazine but you didn’t think of it in time?” He was right, it was a missed opportunity and - even worse - I told him about it. Ugh. What a great Christmas present that would have been for him. Perhaps the opportunity to be in Ski Magazine will come again, but you will begin to notice my husband’s name on many product shots - just to be safe. I’m certainly not going to make that mistake twice.

I’ve included a photo of the three of us and my son’s skis with his Name Bubbles at the end of the 2011 season. Labeling all of our gear is something that I do every year; I like to use the Bi-level Fun Bubbles for our skis, boots and poles. I typically provide my cell phone number in the tagline should someone need to reach me while we are at the mountain and of course to return any equipment that might get left behind. I also use NameBubbles Allergy Alert Labels on Cooper’s helmet and the front of his jacket indicating his peanut and nut allergy and they also have our contact information if the ski school needs to reach us. Of course, his socks, gloves and fleece are also stuck with personalized clothing labels; which ensured that were able to recover a black ski glove last year at the ski school because of his name label. Snow gear is expensive, so remember to bundle up and Bubble Up before you and your family head out the door. Keep your focus on the fun - not the lost and found.

http://www.namebubbles.com/index.html

Harvest Time At Name Bubbles!

2011-11-07T16:18:00.000-05:00

Harvest Time

Our office is all a buzz with team members discussing the various things that will make up their unique Thanksgiving celebrations. From traditions to travel arrangements, all our Thanksgivings will have one thing in common: Family, Food and Friends.

When creating Name Bubbles’ Harvest Theme Giveaway, we wanted our press-and-stick Harvest Labels to double as kid-friendly name labels and a possible family-friendly project. Thanksgiving is, after all, a time to give thanks, come together, laugh and love. The two projects – place cards and napkin rings - were easy and fun. You could certainly dress them up with Calligraphy with italic ink and monogram cloth napkins.

Another great use for our Harvest Labels is to claim Thanksgiving leftovers! Label your take-out and Tupperware containers with your personalized labels and you’ll be ready to whip up late night turkey sandwiches or another creative leftover recipe.

So, how can you get your own set of Harvest Them Labels? It’s easy. They’re our gift to you all month long, so if you haven’t received yours, here’s how it works: For every Value Pack purchase you make during the month of November, you’ll receive a sheet of eight (8) dishwasher safe personalized Harvest Theme Labels.

Don’t forget to share with us how you use them!
Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Harvest from Name Bubbles,

Michelle Brandriss, Founder & CEO

Name Bubbles Stick Around For The Long Haul

2011-09-18T22:59:00.000-04:00

We rarely remove the “rocket box” during the summer season, partly being lazy, but it’s also very useful for vacations and camping, especially with two dogs in the back. So in addition to the extreme cold of the Northeast, when we drive every weekend to the Adirondacks through sub-zero wind chill, road salt and car washes, our Bubble endures summer heat, rain and bright sun.

Over the past 2 ½+ years, where ever “Bessie” (my 2001 Subaru Outback) goes, our Name Bubbles have stuck around for the ride. As we’ve mentioned on our Web site, our labels are tough and tested, they’ll stick where you need them.

Our waterproof labels can be found at http://www.namebubbles.com/

Cooper Land

2011-09-05T08:28:00.003-04:00

While attending my son’s Preschool graduation, which I know sounds over the top, everyone could see that the teachers and the kids worked really hard on their performances and it was a lot of fun. Before the children came out to receive their diplomas, the slide show of their time together was being played to the song “Don’t Blink”. To the teachers’ dismay and my very good fortune, the audio on the slide show presentation was skipping terribly. It was perfect, it kept me laughing; I didn’t want to focus on how quickly the last five years have gone by.

In the reproductive timeline of life, my husband and I met near the end; a day doesn’t go by that I don’t find myself very thankful that I am a mom. My biggest fear as a working parent is that I may miss something, a magical moment, during our time apart. I am sure this is something that so many mothers and fathers go through. Nothing seemed more difficult than the first few weeks we started daycare.

As we begin another chapter of life, I can’t believe how quickly the time has passed and I make sure that between the melt downs and stubborn streaks, we share as many special moments together as possible. I’ve included the Cooper Land (spoof on my son’s favorite game) collage that was made for his Preschool graduation and I am wishing everyone an easy transition into their new school, new class and daycare this fall. Thanks for listening and be well…Michelle

Momredemption - Saved By A Bubble

2011-08-03T12:23:00.000-04:00

We recently took a trip to Niagara Falls with the extended Brandriss Family. Our vacation coincided with a very healthy heat wave and we were all very happy to jump on the Maid of the Mist. As the boat approached the falls, and we were absolutely melting in our pretty blue hoody bags, the entire boat moved towards the rails to be drenched in the monster spray of the falls. Just what we needed!

We waddled off the boat, our clothes sticking to us with river water. Don’t get me wrong, I love this stuff. I am the tourist whom souvenir picture takers and trinket store owners long for. I quickly ducked into a gift store; with the entire family waiting outside in the heat, the pressure to find a Maid of the Mist bath toy was on! After a 2 minute hunt for any boat that would float, I became frantic; with my son in hand I quickly talked him into a fun mug for his bedside table. Both of us were content. I had completed my task within a short amount of time, knowing the family would still be drying out.

During lunch, I pulled out the mug for my son. “SARA”, my husband said with a puzzled look. He spotted it immediately…the name SARA was big and bold on the front of the mug! I gasped as we both laughed. How could I have missed that? Oh No! This would be another regrettable mom moment, you know, the small details you miss that may emotionally scar your child for life. My husband finds them amusing but they remind me that I am an impossibly imperfect parent, no matter how hard I try. He quietly whispered, “Put it in your bag and put a Name Bubble on it when we get home.” I smiled and got over my feelings of being a bad mom. I would find my “Momredemption” after all, the crisis would be avoided.

Over the next few days of vacation my son forgot about the mug. When we arrived at home, I carved off the name SARA and quickly stuck on one of his Dishwasher Safe Mini Bubbles. I presented the mug with his name label on the front…which of course, made it extra special. Every night for the last week, my son has asked for his special cup before bedtime. Whooosh… my “Momredemption” was a success, and with his name on it, I know the mug will be with us for many years to come.

Name Bubbles Back To School Promotion

2011-07-18T22:59:00.001-04:00

It's that time of year again and we are happy to provide a back-to-school coupon for all of your bubbling needs!

Our 15% off coupon is valid through 7/24/2011, so don't delay. The discount is available for the entire order and is a great time to try labels you were always curious about.

Name Bubbles School Labels and Preschool Labels come in a variety of age appropriate styles and designs with colors your kids will love.

Be sure to include your kids during your label selection, we have found that they love to be involved with the "Bubble Maker" and the order process.

Keep their things coming home and avoid the lost and found - Happy Bubbling!

Name Bubbles Allergy Labels

2011-07-12T11:42:00.000-04:00

We were thrilled when American Baby Magazine chose Name Bubbles Allergy Labels for their "Your Baby" section of the May 2011 issue.

Name Bubbles Allergy Labels are specially designed to give peace of mind to the parents of kids with life-threatening allergies. Michelle Brandriss, CEO and founder of Name Bubbles, understands this concern first hand. Knowing what her son needed to stay safe while in the care of others, helped to design the labels to fulfill not only her son's needs, but also the similar needs of millions of families worldwide.

Name Bubbles durable, waterproof Allergy Alert Labels stay firmly affixed to backpacks, lunchboxes, sippy cups, or any food container; plus, they focus extra attention on what to do in case of an allergy attack on field trip forms, permission slips, and other school and camp documents. Each label leaves room for four lines of information, so parents can include the types of allergies, directions about what to do if an allergy attack occurs, and parent- and physician-contact phone numbers in case of emergency.

Name Bubbles Bag-Tag Campaign to Support

2011-03-15T09:17:00.000-04:00

With every purchase of a personalized bag tag, Name Bubbles will donate $1.25 to Water For People to help build a world where all people have access to safe drinking water and sanitation.

Through a new product line, our bag tags, and customer interest around the world, Name Bubbles is helping support the work of Water For People, a non-profit organization that brings long-lasting water and sanitation solutions to 11 developing countries in Asia, Africa, South and Central America.

In launching the bag-tag campaign, Name Bubbles made an initial $10,000 donation to Water For People and has committed an additional $1.25 to the cause for every bag tag purchased. When parents order their children’s labels on the company Web site, they have the option of selecting a personalized bag tag, either a dog tag ($2) or carabiner-style tag ($2.50), and Name Bubbles will donate $1.25 for each bag tag selected.

According to a 2008 report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, approximately 884 million people lack access to clean water and 2.6 billion people do not have adequate sanitation. The problem is staggering, but we can help Water For People create solutions that will ensure that whole communities including schools and health clinics in the developing world have access to water and sanitation resources that last and that’s what we are hoping for. As a business, we can act, support, and offer a product that Name Bubbles’ customers can really use, and at the same time help Water For People transform communities. Thank you for learning about our Bag Tag Campaign, if you would like to learn more please visit, http://www.namebubbles.com/name-tags/bag-tag-labels.html

Nominate Name Bubbles!

2011-01-26T12:04:00.000-05:00

Bubble Us Up!

Please help Name Bubbles by nominating us for a Cribsie Award: http://cribsieawards.com/ If you love us, let Crisbie know before February 4th, then come back to our Facebook page to post that you nominated us. We will pick one of our faithful bubblers to win a pack of our diswasher safe, waterproof fun bubbles labels!

It's Our Party!

2011-01-19T22:07:00.000-05:00

Name Bubbles is TWO YEARS OLD!

to celebrate + to thank you for your support

(and for bubbling around the world)

we would like to offer you 20% OFF of your order!

enter code: "2ndYear" at checkout + click "apply"

valid: January 20-25th 2011

http://www.namebubbles.com/

The Hybrid Moms Of The Week Interview

2011-01-04T22:17:00.000-05:00

Written By: Allison Rubin, Hybrid Mom

Name: Michelle Brandriss
Company: Name Bubbles
Position: CEO/Founder
Website: http://www.namebubbles.com/
Year company was founded: January 20, 2009

Family: Husband, David Brandriss, 4 year old son, Cooper Brandriss, two lovable shelter dogs, we don’t know how old they are - Jocomo (Australian Sheppard) and Della (A mix of Lab and Chow).

Tell us about your company: Name Bubbles are waterproof name labels that are designed to last through the rough-and-tumble of everyday life. They’re stylized but functional, with a press and stick application that lasts through the dishwasher and laundry. Name Bubbles keep it all coming home and help parents save time and money.

My a-ha moment: Labels and label companies have been around for many years and as a working mom I used labels from several companies. It’s a competitive niche market but as we started to learn the extent of my son’s nut allergies, I wanted to be able to add all of my contact information and instructions right on the label. Nuts and coconut oil are hidden in many processed foods. We have to be very careful and this level of customization was not available before Name Bubbles. I was designing around my own needs, and it turns out they dovetailed with needs other parents were experiencing.

How do you work your schedule to get a little flexibility? I don’t go home for a relaxing weekend much anymore but as a parent and spouse, the flexibility of owning my own business has been amazing. I can be where I need to be for my family, swim class at 4:30...no problem. The downside is that you never stop, not that any mom ever “Stops." I am a night owl so I love easing into the day and spending some extra time at home before going into the office. I often find myself kissing my son goodnight and then I am off again or working from home, it’s a routine that really works for me. Then there are times, where you do your best and call it a day. My son just turned four and it has gone by in a flash. He is outgoing and very independent. I am appreciating every Mommy moment that I have while I am still cool enough to spend time with.

Can you offer any tips to other moms out there regarding growing a business or encouraging words for those with a small business? If you know you are on the right path, then don’t ask anyone for their approval. But always keep an ear out for good advice. Be confident and clearly inform others of your decisions. When you have questions, find the most qualified person to ask for help. Everyone has a specialty. I‘ve learned the hard way, you will usually end up saving yourself time and money if you do not try to do it all yourself.
I wake up in the middle of the night thinking about: I’ve been sleeping very well the last few months because I’ve recognized the two consultants that I cannot function without…a good lawyer and a good accountant. Effective legal representation will protect your innovative ideas or designs, and the Tax Man can be very frightening, tax laws are complicated for small businesses and shouldn’t be handled alone.

Best thing about being a parent: When I think about whom I was before and after the birth of my son, it’s a bit surreal. Something happened when I was pregnant…I became part of something bigger than myself, I see people differently. I’ve become more forgiving, more understanding, and I try to remember that we impact one another, our actions, words and thoughts have meaning. I feel incredibly grateful and happy that I am able to share my life with my family, with my son.

Best thing about owning my own business: Growing up I always felt that I didn’t fit into the “Business World”, I wasn’t competitive enough. In many ways I am a laid back person, I don’t have a routine, a strict diet, or schedule – I would never be pointed out as success driven or “Type A”. Name Bubbles has provided a very nurturing vehicle, I believe it has helped me become more competitive and disciplined but in my own way. I am driven now, but it’s to create a great product. I want moms and dads to know that we care about our bubbles and ensure they receive a superior product that is backed up with great customer service. Even though it’s a very simple concept, I am very proud of our products, I am always happy to get into the office.

Guilty pleasure? As I’ve gotten older I’ve started looking at things differently, I don’t feel guilty about the little things and I really appreciate them. For example, chocolate and I have always had a special relationship, I am laughing as I am writing this, but it’s true! I appreciate it, I enjoy it, but I’ve learned that too much of a good thing can have bad results, balance is everything. Or, if I take the time and money to find a new handbag or go to a movie and dinner, than I am truly grateful that I had the resources to do so. A little pampering and fun can do wonders for any mom.

The Bubble Maker

2010-12-17T15:33:00.000-05:00

The Bubble Maker Is Here!

Thank you for your feedback and suggestions, we included much of your input and enjoyed hearing from our customers.

While browsing through Name Bubbles, you will find different label packs created for your family's needs and activities. By clicking through the buttons "Create Your Labels", you will see a Bubble Maker displaying the label styles that each pack has to offer. We've included 24 color palettes and 43 icons, we believe there is something for everyone.

Our 10% off discount and free shipping is running through the New Year. Please take a look at our homepage for details and the promotion code. Happy Holidays to you and your family.

The Name Bubbles Team

Bubbly Solution Solves "Mommy, Where's My..."

2010-10-26T10:03:00.001-04:00

Thank you to Jaime at wineglasslipper.wordpress.com for her review of our Name Bubbles Labels. We've provided a portion of the review below, to read the entire entry, please click on the title above.

Well, this year I’ve discovered a solution that is not only simple but looks super cute – and my kids love it! Say goodbye to that ol’ Sharpie marker and hello Name Bubbles. These identity stickers are waterproof and water-resistant. They are adorable, easy to use, dishwasher safe, survive the laundry, and guarantee that on that one morning (just the one) that you’re running late you won’t forget to label the sippy cup!

Name Bubbles, found at http://www.namebubbles.com/, come in a variety of shapes and sizes with fun icons to make personalization recognizable for kiddos who are too young to read their name. My children sampled the full daycare package, which includes Name Bubbles that are laundry and dishwasher safe, so we have them on everything. After hearing wonderful things about this product, I figured we’d be pleased with our Name Bubbles, but I have to say that I continue to be impressed with what these little labels can survive.

I’m thinking Name Bubbles are my gift solution this season for the difficult-to-buy-for kiddos in my life – a fun, unique gift that is not only useful but can help make life a little easier for both kids and parents…and might help to control the heaping overflow of the lost-and (not yet) -found at school!

Name Bubbles Review – Back to School Labels

2010-08-08T17:36:00.000-04:00

Name Bubbles Kids Labels

Smart Family Tips

We were thrilled when Smart Family Tips reached out to us for a review of our school labels. We've provided some of our favorite portions of the review, including the disclaimer. For the entire review please visit, Name Bubbles Review - Back to School or www.smartfamilytips.com.

Disclaimer: I received a sample pack of labels from Name Bubbles so that I might review their product. Like the Planet Box, I was so impressed with the product that I have ordered more labels at my own expense. I have no relationship with the Name Bubbles Company and receive no benefit or payment from them for writing a favorable review. I genuinely like their product.

I’ve purchased from other label companies before, but just a couple of weeks ago, I stumbled upon Name Bubbles. I’m hooked.

Here’s What I Like:

Eco-Friendly Ink. This is probably at the top of the list for me. Name Bubbles is the only label company I’ve found to use environmentally-friendly ink, a feature I like.
Fast Turn-Around. Name Bubbles are made in the United States, unlike some of the other leading companies. I received my first order within days, not the weeks it took when I ordered elsewhere.
Cute Designs. There are 16 cute icons to choose from and a host of bright and fun colors. My girls really enjoyed picking out their own.
They Work. Name Bubbles really do stick. They have water-proof labels that last through drink condensation and the dishwasher. They also make labels for clothing that don’t have to be ironed on. This is a huge bonus for me.
Variety. Name Bubbles come in a variety of sizes and are made for a variety of uses: waterproof, water-resistant, clothing labels, shoe labels, etc.
Good (Paperless) Fundraising Option.If you are involved with fundraising at your child’s school, Name Bubbles has a great program. Participating schools receive 15% of purchases made through their online campaign. Name Bubbles provides a banner for the school or PTO to place on their website and as long as someone clicks on the banner and purchases within 90 days, the school will receive 15% of the total. This also works for email campaigns as well.

Back-to-School Time with Name Bubbles School Labels

2010-08-02T18:26:00.000-04:00

Name Bubbles school labels keep back-to-school purchases coming home; saving families time and money by avoiding the lost-and-found box.

Name Bubbles, press and stick labels are made with an eco-friendly, non-toxic ink. A perfect choice for labeling the many items kids use at school and during their afternoon activities.

For school uniforms, athletic equipment, and school supplies – the Name Bubbles personalized School Pack provides a mix of label styles that are durable, washing machine and dishwasher safe.

Kids have a lot to remember and Name Bubbles labels help them keep track of their things. If a personal belonging has a label, other kids will know to whom it belongs, so there's a better chance of getting it back. Plus, Name Bubbles are fun, have flare and add a little character.

Name Bubbles School Pack provides 144 labels in a variety of styles, these include:

8 water resistant squares – perfect for big ticket items, these labels have room for contact information
8 water resistant rectangles – made for binders, folders, notebooks, and school books
36 water resistant minis – labels for art supplies and the many pencil box items
2 extra large water resistant rectangles – a label for your locker, favorite binder, or subject folder
56 laundry safe tags - press and stick kids clothing labels, for quick and reliable labeling
16 shoe labels - shoe labels are often needed for the gym and after school activities
16 waterproof rectangles - water resistant labels with a lot of contact information for big ticket items
2 extra large waterproof rectangles – great for backpacks, sports bags, or any favorite item

The Name Bubbles School Labels Pack is available online for $35.50 at www.NameBubbles.com

Mommy Loves It!

2010-06-28T13:49:00.000-04:00

We love it when Mommy Bloggers review our product, they are a trusted source for parents and will put the labels to the test. I've provided the "Does Mommy Love It?" review below. Make sure you visit the link at the bottom to enter into the Name Bubbles giveaway.

My son and his playmates are often participating in outdoor activities. The older he gets, the harder it is to keep his items in one place. With all the sippy cups, toys, and other belongings flying around, name labels have now become a necessity. My favorite is Name Bubbles!

Name Bubbles carries waterproof and water resistant vinyl kid labels that can be personalized in name and design. You have so many options for your child’s stickers so that your items are easily recognized. They also make a line of Baby Labels that are waterproof, durable, and laundry and dishwasher safe! I place as many of my son’s containers and drink cups as possible in the dishwasher, and these stickers haven’t aged one bit! I’ve yet to see labels with this much longevity.

Once you decide which kind of label you need, it is time for the personalization part. Name Bubbles allows for a variety of details for your stickers such as, Allergy Alert Bubbles, Mini Bubbles Shaped Bubbles (football, flower, car, heart), super sized bubbles, and more. In addition to shape and size you have an array of color options. I was a bit overwhelmed when designing my sons’ labels. I could not believe all the options they provided. We settled with blue, red, and white car labels and they have worked perfectly for his items!

As many of you mothers know, leaving a bottle or snack container at the park or a friends home can happen often, so personalizing your child’s things is imperative. Whether you are dropping your kid in daycare or Sunday school, or sending your kid off to camp, these labels make sure their belongings are secured.

Name Bubbles is offering a label pack to one of our readers! Simply visit Name Bubbles and leave a comment here with your thoughts and favorites! http://doesmommyloveit.com/?s=name+bubbles

Momma Findings Review Of Our Allergy Alert Labels

2010-06-14T16:33:00.000-04:00

Allergy Awareness: Alerts That Stick With Name Bubbles

As long as my toddler has a severe food allergy, I'll continue my effort to support companies and products who help families like mine stay safe. Last month, I've featured allergy safe food and hip allergy jewelry your kids can wear. Today, however, I've got a method that will really "stick".

I get a little carried away with protecting my little one, but I kind of have to. He's 3-years-old and is severely allergic to peanuts. He's my Epipen carrying little guy, who has now learned which candies he can and cannot have. It's amazing to see him when he's picking out Lunchables, "Uh. I can't get that one, it has a peanut candy." So, while he knows which foods he can have, often times, his caregivers don't. Every little reminder helps, especially on his eating utensils. Name Bubbles has you covered and specializes in Medical and Allergy alerts that stick to just about anything helping my toddler voice his allergy to everyone around him.

Momma Findings Family Thoughts:

When I was asked to review Name Bubbles, I grew a little hesitant. If you've been around Momma Findings you know I've worked exclusively with a different Label Company before and probably know all there is about label options for families, but Name Bubbles was different. I, immediately, discovered a few differences in our Allergy Alert Labels compared to our previous tags from the other company. Some of these differences were merely about the storing and packaging of the labels, but others could make a difference in saving my child's life.

For the entire Momma Findings review, please visit:
http://www.mommafindings.com/2010/06/allergy-awareness-alerts-that-stick.html

To The Army Of Mommies

2010-05-03T11:12:00.000-04:00

Last week my son, Cooper, and I flew to visit my parents. It’s a bit of a trek, and with a little guy dashing from the shuttle trains to moving walkways and escalators, a calm resolve can evaporate quickly.

We had a long layover at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, and I was lucky to find a playground for Cooper, so I could settle in with my book and relax for a few minutes. Too soon, though, we had to grab a bite to eat and go to our gate -- little did I know, there had been a gate change. It was after the last minute bathroom break that I finally clued in on the situation, hmmm…this is really strange . . . there aren’t that many people on this flight and why aren’t we boarding? I took a look at the departures board, found our new gate, and we were off and running – literally! By the time we arrived, though, the stewardess had just closed the door. The plane was there but we had just missed the cutoff. Frustrated tears filled my eyes, and I said to Cooper, “Buddy, mommy really messed up.”

We soon found ourselves behind more than 40 people in the customer service line. It was tough: a flight had just been canceled and we were stuck right behind most of those angry and tired passengers. During the wait, I set my son up with the DVD player and a movie, but it was a no-go. He had reached his limit and the meltdown was imminent.

Then something amazing happened. Over the course of the next 20 minutes, I realized I was part of something much larger: an army of mommies who magically swoop in with crackers, cookies, water, juice boxes, to help with your child or stand in your place in line so you can take your little one to the bathroom. They’d been in my shoes somewhere sometime, and they actually wanted to help. I was so touched by their compassion that it turned my night around (plus the customer service agent took pity on us, and gave us a complimentary room, which helped a lot, too).

So I just want to say “thank you” to the army of mommies who look out for each other and our little ones. I can’t imagine facing the perils of an airport without you!

http://www.namebubbles.com/

Name Bubbles Launches "Bubble Up" Fundraising Program

2010-04-14T10:12:00.004-04:00

“Bubble Up” program members earn a 15 percent commission on referral sales of Name Bubbles personalized name labels.

We’ve designed our "Bubble Up" program to be easy to use, transparent, and as seamless for our fundraising partners as possible. Name Bubbles not only supply and ship the labels and track referral commissions on a unique program page for each partner, but we also provide our "Bubble Up" Web banner ads and other online marketing materials, so all they need to do is sign up, place their ads, and start earning their commissions from referred sales.

Like Name Bubbles, the “Bubble Up” fundraising program is easy to use. Here's how it works:

A visitor clicks on an advertising link or banner on a “Bubble Up” partner’s Web site, promotional email, Facebook page, etc.
The visitor's IP address is automatically logged by Name Bubbles and a browser cookie is placed in his or her browser for tracking purposes.
If the visitor orders (the order need not be placed during the same shopping session--cookies and IPs are stored for 90 days), the order will be immediately registered as a sale for the partner’s organization.
If the visitor has turned off their cookies on their Web browser settings, then the “Bubble Up” system will check for the partner’s Web site IP address.
Name Bubbles reviews and approves the sale.
The “Bubble Up” partner receives commission payouts via PayPal on the 15th day of every month, after the minimum balance reaches $100.

Fundraising partners are also given their very own program page, so they can view detailed statistics about traffic and sales; plus, partners can choose their own news and training materials, Web banner ads, and text links.

You'll find the "Bubble Up" program from our homepage at: http://www.namebubbles.com/

Tough & Tested Laundry Labels

2010-04-06T15:49:00.000-04:00

As warmer weather takes hold -- and as water shoes, swimming suits, and towels start making an appearance -- the Name Bubbles Team would like to remind parents that our laundry labels (and all of our waterproof bubbles) are laminated for extra durability. And they are not affected by insect repellants or sunblock, which is important now that mosquito season is approaching!

We’ve recently redesigned our Bubble Toes with a cute flip-flop shape. Thanks to a new lamination process they no longer need the protective overlay step, so affixing them is a single-step process. Bubble Toes stay firmly stuck to the inside soles of any shoe. It’s also a fun way to remind kids which shoe is left and which one is right.

Don’t forget! While they’re designed to remain stuck to items permanently, all of our labels can always be removed with intent, which also makes them a perfect choice for clothing handed down to family members, donated to charity, or sold at consignment shops.

Enter To Win Our "Awesome" Daycare Labels Pack

2010-03-30T13:10:00.000-04:00

Hi, NameBubbles aficionados,

I wanted to let you know about a wonderful review we received for our “awesome” Daycare Labels Pack in 365 days: +30 Mommyhood (excerpted below).

There’s also a NameBubbles giveaway afoot on that site, and it’s open until this Friday (April 2, 2010). To learn how to enter to win a FREE Daycare Labels Pack, just visit 365 days: 30+ Mommyhood (http://365daysofbeing30andamommy.blogspot.com/).

Good luck with the contest! I also hope you enjoy reading these excerpts from our fabulous 365 days: +30 Mommyhood review – we sure do:

In the daycare pack you get dishwasher safe labels so that you don't have to worry about relabeling bottles, as well as laundry safe labels so all of Abby's extra clothes won't get lost (and I don't have to use the old school "write her name on the label with a sharpie" thing). And you also get some fun water resistant stickers to put on odds and ends that may be left at daycare like diaper cream or lotion bottles or her personal toys.

And of course I had to test them out for you. So here are some shots of the dishwasher name bubbles. And trust me, they are before and after, though you can't really tell the difference, b/c they are just that awesome...

I tested putting the name bubbles directly on the clothes as well has the separate label, and they each did perfectly fine. And again here, you can't tell the difference b/c they are just that awesome.

Overall, I was really impressed at how all the laundry and dishwasher labels performed. And the dishwasher ones have gone through several more times after the pictures above were taken and they are still securely on.

Name Bubbles also has some other packs that I think I will be getting in the future as Abby grows like their school pack and their camp pack. (Though they have loads of other packs to choose from.) I have a feeling we are going to become fast friends with this company.

Bubbles To Share

2010-03-24T23:59:00.001-04:00

Keep Your Friends and Family Sticking Around

During our first year of business we received a lot of feedback from our customers, and I want to thank those who took the time to call and write us about products they wanted or product and Web site improvements that you thought we should make.

One request we received from more than a few parents, was the ability to order a few labels for each child or have the ability to give labels to friends and family members as gifts. Because of this feedback, we created our Sampler Pack, which includes 6 personalized sheets of 14 labels (a total of 84 labels) for $18.88. The sampler pack allows six friends or family members to have 14 personalized labels of their own, -- three different styles of labels for each individual.

All of our labels are waterproof vinyl and laminated for extra durability. Each sampler sheet includes two Bubble Toes or shoe labels, six Bitty Bubbles for a child’s garments on the go, and six dishwasher safe Mini Bubbles that can be used on sippy cups, water bottles, and toys.

So, if you love to bubble, we now have bubbles to share. To see our Sampler Pack and Name Bubbles labels, visit http://www.namebubbles.com/labelpack/sampler-pack.html or http://www.namebubbles.com/

Name Bubbles Luggage Labels

2010-03-14T17:47:00.000-04:00

Our neighbor is commuter-plane pilot, and he mentioned how often small overhead suitcases get mixed up. He also said that even the pilot’s black bag in the closet at the front of the plane is at risk. With Spring Break already upon us (and Summer vacations getting planned) we are pleased to offer our uber-useful Luggage Pack to keep travel confusion to a minimum!

The Luggage Pack includes your choice of 8 Super Bubbles or 8 Big Bubbles and 8 Square Bubbles – all with your name and contact information, such as, e-mail, phone numbers, or your address. No need to worry about your bag tag being torn off, because your luggage labels are designed to stay firmly affixed to your luggage, even under the worst treatment by luggage handlers.

Our labels are waterproof, weatherproof, and laminated for extra durability. Before you take off, be sure to visit http://www.namebubbles.com/ for our luggage labels. And enjoy your vacation!

A Big Boy Day

2010-03-07T20:15:00.002-05:00

It was a big day on Friday. Two childhood hurdles were taken on; things we have been waiting many months for took place spontaneously and quickly.

My son is three-and-a-half and has been slow to embrace the “Big Boy” underwear. For many months we remind him about the time and using the potty, he hasn’t been very interested in tackling the routine and has preferred using his pull-ups rather than taking time away from his toys. Everyone (even the pediatrician) has told me, “It will just happen one day or as soon as he feels like it.” We’ve done our best at getting the ball rolling and being patient but he’s in control and he lets us know it.

During this time we’ve also enrolled him in swim lessons, the earlier he is a strong swimmer the better (more for safety reasons than anything else, but he also happens to love it). For six months my husband and I have sat up in the bleachers at our local YMCA during Cooper’s weekly class. We watch him climb up the racing platform, agonize about jumping, and then he quickly climbs down to jump from the side of the pool.

Something happened on Friday, I am not sure what it was but he insisted on wearing his “Big Boy” pants that day. I quickly ran to his drawers and pulled out three extra pairs of underwear and pants to pack in his bag for daycare. I also labeled everything to make sure I didn’t lose anything, if there were a lot changes. On the way to school I reminded Cooper many, many times to let his teachers know if he needed help going potty – I was not very optimistic about the laundry pile. When I picked him up I was thrilled to see that he only had one accident.

An hour later my husband and I were sitting on the bleachers watching Cooper swim up and down the pool. The class climbed out to do their jumps, on queue he climbed up the racing platform. He agonized a little but quickly jumped with his arms spread out like his was going to fly. When he popped out of the water (thanks to his floaty), his mouth opened in a smile and he let out a squeal. My husband and I grabbed one another and started screaming like our son had just won a gold medal, he turned to me and chuckled, “Honey, are you crying?” I have to admit that I was a little misty. What a day.

Dad’s Little Ripper

2010-02-26T22:07:00.001-05:00

My husband will pick up joke gifts or novelty items for our son when he’s out running errands. Some are great…the $5.00 pocket train that ran non-stop for 3 month, or the pull-back Mini Cooper that buzzed across the kitchen floor. Then there are some like the squishy panda bear that lost its black paint in my son’s mouth and the mini whoopie cushion.

When the cushion first arrived, my husband and son played with at the kitchen table and my son would laugh to the point of choking during meal time. After a few days, the novelty wore off and I removed it from the kitchen and put it in one of his cubby bins thinking it would be forgotten. Not so…and I do confess that I am embarrassed about this post.

Before bed on Thursday nights, my son and I walk around the house and talk about what to bring for Friday’s show-and-tell. He pre-empted our weekly routine, placed the mini whoopie on the counter and announced that he wanted it labeled for show-and-tell that week. Seriously?!! Out of all the toys and books we have, the first item he picked to be labeled was a whoopie cushion.

About the title, I found this tidbit and wondered how many men and their sons attended the event. In 2009, a company produced the world's largest whoopie cushion and called it “The Big Ripper”.

You Forgot Something

2010-02-17T14:08:00.001-05:00

My son and I dashed out of town for a quick overnight at the Flanagan family lake house “Innisfree” for President’s Day. Cooper was thrilled to see his cousins and I would have some coveted down time with my sister. The house is filled with toys from several families and different generations; for many it is a wonderful home away from home. While packing I had managed to sneak Cooper’s keyboard into the car, I was avoiding the sounds of his favorite drumbeat, duck quacking, and keyboard pouncing tunes during the two hour drive.

In the morning, after my usual cups of coffee and my son treating himself to one minor tumble down the basement stairs (a game of hide-and-seek), a hurried good-bye came too quickly. It was tough getting my little guy in the car, he loves his big cousins. I had driven to the main road when my phone rang and I heard, “You forgot something.” I quickly asked what it was, I was willing to leave a sippy cup or sock behind. I heard the news…it was a toy worthy of turning around for…the keyboard. As we pulled into the driveway my niece ran out with the toy and handed it to my son, he was thrilled and immediately pushed the on button. I turned the car around and smiled, happy that I had put a label on it but wondering how much patience I would have. Fifteen minutes later my smile came back, the noise stopped and Cooper was asleep.

Our Valentine's Day Promotion - Bubble Love

2010-02-08T23:10:00.000-05:00

We're spreading "Bubble Love" for one of our favorite days. Our Valentine's promotion provides a 15% discount through February 14, 2010. During checkout, enter the code: Bubble Love

The Name Bubbles Team wishes you and your family a wonderful Valentine's Day. We love the following quote and wanted to share it with our friends and customers.

Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do... but how much love we put in that action.

-Mother Teresa

Avoid Trouble When You Bubble

2010-02-04T22:39:00.000-05:00

What do you do when your children lose things?

It is very tempting to automatically replace their favorite ball or truck when they are young, but as they grow so do the price tags on their personal items. It is difficult to stand firm and have children replace items. As parents, we hope they will learn the value of their belongings and the financial consequences of losing them.

Yet we also remember what it was like to be young and children have more distractions than ever. Because of these reasons, and that their toys and tools are expensive, it is crucial to label everything. For big ticket items, I love our square bubbles. In addition to the name, there are three lines of personal information for your e-mail, phone numbers, or address. Our square labels can be found in several of our label packs, including school labels, camp labels, and sports labels.

More Than A Laundry Safe Label - We Call Them "Binky Bubbles"

2010-01-26T16:18:00.000-05:00

Our cute Bitty Bubbles, created for laundry safe labels, have found an important use in labeling pacifiers. Internally we have dubbed these little darlings "Binky Bubbles".

Moms know...
How do you feel seeing another little one's binky in the mouth of your own bub or not knowing if your little tike's peace maker is being used in the wrong crib at naptime?

Name Bubbles Daycare Labels include 56 Bitty Bubbles in the pack and are perfect for bibs, bottles, and of course...binkies.

Happy 1st Year Name Bubbles

2010-01-20T12:03:00.004-05:00

A big thank you to our friends and customers. Your support, feedback, and loyalty helped us make it through our first year! Our promotion code began today (1/20/2010) and will be valid through the end of the month. Wishing you all a bubbling day.

The Name Bubbles Team

Label It All With Name Bubbles

2010-01-12T20:25:00.001-05:00

We received another wonderful review today from a popular mommy blogger "Mom Most Traveled"
Following is an excerpt from the review:
I teach preschool and I am a mom to a 5 year old and 2 year old. I am an evangelist about the importance of labeling your child’s belongings!

I love the many options of customization that Name Bubbles labels offer.

You can customize your Name Bubbles by choosing the design of your choice, and adding your personal info for identification, allergy alerts, or emergency contact information.
Name Bubbles has some thoughtfully designed packs for different labeling needs. There is a School Labels assortment, Daycare Labels, a set of Luggage Labels, or even a Sampler Pack , where up to 6 people can get personalized labels in a single order!
To see the entire order please click on the following link: http://mommosttraveled.com/label-it-all-with-name-bubbles/

A Big Thank You To "An Island Life" For Your Review

2010-01-05T00:06:00.000-05:00

We've provided some of the "An Island Life" review below, the entire review can be found through the link at the bottom of the post.

The first thing I noticed were the adorable labels themselves. Mine were brightly colored with ladybugs on them. There were a few easy instructions, the most important ones being to take care that there are no air bubbles under the labels and to wait 24 hours before running items in the dishwasher or laundry. Easy enough. I decided to place one label on a sippy cup and one label on my daughter’s winter coat. I waited 24 hours and then washed both.

My Results: I now see why Name Bubbles won an iParenting Media Award. Both labels adhered perfectly to the items through the dishwashing and the laundry. I’m impressed….especially with the laundry safe labels. They are just so practical. If your child is in a daycare, church nursery, playcenter at McDonald’s (the shoe area), or school and sports activities, you know just how easy it is to lose something. Here’s a simple way to help prevent that.

Health: I was really excited to see Medical Alert Labels as part of the products you can purchase. How nice for parents to be able to attach these to backpacks, lunch boxes and even documents when their child has a special condition that might require immediate attention.

For adults too: I forget to tell Name Bubbles that I wanted my daughter’s name on the labels, so all the labels came with my name on them. That’s okay, I still put my stickers on her items. So, I started to think of all the ways that I could use them too. The first thing I did was immediately put them on my craft scissors. Sometimes when you are scrapping with friends or at a crop, it’s easy to grab others’ items. The Mini-Labels fit just perfect!

http://islandlife808.com/reviews/name-bubbles-labels/

Our Name Bubbles Save of the Week

2009-12-29T12:24:00.001-05:00

I will admit that we've gone through a number of the pocket size Lightning McQueen cars. They stay in my son's hand when we are at home or out running errands and it's always a mad dash to find the one with the smile (without the tar mark or tongue sticking out). I didn't realize that the same car has 5 different styles and he is sold on the one look.

Our first tragedy occurred at Ruby Tuesday's and I was certain dinner would end in a meltdown -McQueen took a wrong turn and I couldn't fit my hand down between the booth and the wall to rescue him. The second was between the ski lodge and the car. Finally, on our third McQueen we pulled a recovery - Yay!

I am very excited about this... It had been a couple of days when I realized that my son had it with him in the car-cart at the grocery store. Running back to the car with a cart full of bags and the snow coming down, I forgot to check the front of the cart for the toy. It had been two days (a lifetime for my son) so I checked customer service when I went in to do my shopping. The woman immediately said, "Yes I do!" and pulled out a box. Voila, there was Lightning McQueen ready to go home for some more adventures with a very happy Cooper. A big "Thank You" to the parent who turned the toy into customer service. :)

Staying Warm with Name Bubbles

2009-12-21T21:35:00.009-05:00

Our little one has a serious case of "Train-on-the-Brain", it's all consuming. He talks about the pistons and how they push the driving rodes, which push the wheels - I am not kidding, I have to look at the books he carries around to make sure I know what he is talking about.

That being said, we decided to surprise him with a Santa Train ride last weekend. Even though the cars were heated it was cold, really cold. Looking through my pictures I noticed that my son's Name Bubbles for both his glove and his hat made it in the photo. With his gloves I do label on the outside, they are too easy to lose and I don't want to take a chance of cold fingers where we live. The laundry safe Bitty Bubble is on the hat just under his chin and I have one on the care tag on the inside of the hat. I have had a glove returned a time or two and I am always so thankful, not only does it save money but there are times in the winter season when it's hard to find gloves that fit. Winter gear doesn't stay on the shelves until the snow melts. Remember to Bubble Up and stay warm this winter. Have a Happy Holiday!

The Bubbling Way

2009-12-13T23:43:00.010-05:00

We went sledding in the woods behind our house today and I took a fantastic video. Well kind of...I had the camera in the portrait position so you would need to lay on your side to watch it - but I do have a photo to show you my son's bubble.

Santa has a couple of Zipfy luges to put under our tree this year, only one color is offered in our area stores. Before we hit the sledding and tubing park I will be bubbling on all sides - they are a blast. If you haven't tried them, please do. Sneak out on your own if you have to, parents should get a little snow time too.

Remind your kids that labels help keep their fun toys coming home and they need to remember to bubble up before they fly out the door.

Keep Expensive Winter Sports Equipment and Clothing From Going Missing

2009-12-06T21:52:00.009-05:00

I love this label pack - the Name Bubbles sports labels offer a great variety at a great price. As with all our label packs, we provide waterproof labels for shoes, clothing, and for items that go through the dishwasher or are exposed to the elements.

Our sports labels include the square bubble, which provides 3 additional lines of contact information for your big ticket items. Ski classes and mountain daycare start soon, I want to make sure my son's gloves, goggles, and skis don't accidentally get pack in the wrong bag.

If they do go home with another family or get left behind, our chances of getting our items back are much greater with a phone number or e-mail.

Name Bubbles Allergy Alert Labels

2009-11-30T22:09:00.008-05:00

I wanted to share a peek into my son's daycare cubby. Having a child with food allergies, I tend to batten down the hatches and label everything.

Recently I had a casual interview and was asked what inspired Name Bubbles. As a working mom I had used labels from several other companies, but I became kind of frustrated with their limited options for styles, colors, and personalization.

This became very necessary with Cooper's food allergy - one of his allergies is a little unusual and is found in a lot of candies and baked foods. I wanted to be able to add all of my contact information and instructions right on the label. This level of customization was not available before Name Bubbles. So really I was designing around my own needs and I am happy that our labels have also helped other parents with medical alert labels and detailed allergy labels.

Name Bubbles 15% Off Holiday Promotion

2009-11-24T17:34:00.002-05:00

Remember the Name Bubbles 15% off holiday promotion during checkout and let your friends and family know about the special savings.

The offer expires 1/1/2010

Bubble Up through the New Year!

Promo code: Holiday

Name Bubbles Labels Help Ensure the Grinch Can't Steal Christmas

2009-11-17T12:15:00.008-05:00

That warm and fuzzy time is approaching - along with all the excitement and confusion that reigns in most households - it's the holidays! Remember Name Bubbles for those stockings and gifts for nieces and nephews, help the little ones keep track of Santa’s bounty throughout the year.

With Name Bubbles you’ll always know which item belongs to whom, long after the holiday decorations have been put back in the attic; plus, they’re easy to customize and purchase online at http://www.namebubbles.com/. The Name Bubbles team wishes you a very warm and happy holiday season.

Bubble Toes - Shoe Labels That Stand Up

2009-04-07T13:20:00.006-04:00

We recently introduced our new shoe labels, Bubble Toes. They are cute, reliable, and easy. Also designed as little feet, Bubble Toes are an extra guide to help your child learn which shoe goes on which foot. Protective covers are provided for extra durability.

We want to help parents keep those shoes coming home and away from the lost and found.

Bubble Toes adhere and or stick to the inside soles of shoes and include a strong, clear vinyl overlay that provides a hard-wearing cover for active feet in all conditions, including water shoes, cleats, ballet slippers, sneakers, or crocs. We've included our Bubble Toes into the following label packs: daycare labels, camp labels, school labels, and sport labels.

Made from the same durable waterproof vinyl as our laundry labels and dishwasher safe labels, Bubble Toes can also be used on items going through the dishwasher and laundry. Take a peek at our Bubble Toes by clicking on the title above.

You Lost What?

2009-02-18T16:18:00.005-05:00

Last winter, while I was still kicking around the idea of creating Name Bubbles, my husband (David) had a nice day at the mountain by himself. He skied without me, which means he skied hard, fast, and had a lot of runs. Even though he grew up skiing and is usually pretty good about grabbing all of his gear, this time he left a key item behind...his pants. Not just any pants, these were the pair he had been waiting and looking for, they had all the features he wanted.

He arrived home exhausted, unpacked his bag and dropped his head, "You're not going to believe this, I forgot my pants." To me skiing is a luxury, I am never happy about how much we need to spend on equipment or clothing, personally I think it's all a little crazy. However, to my husband, it's a necessity, the mountain is his place of relaxation, perhaps meditation. Wisely I bit my tongue, I knew how upset he was at himself.

The next morning was Monday, David got into his car and drove back to the mountain but there were no pants. He looked through the lodge, checked the office, looked in the lost and found - they were gone. He couldn't understand that someone would take them and not turn them in. This is when it hit me, if things were labeled, there's a better chance that people would turn them in. If something has a name or phone number on it the rule of "Finders-Keepers" may not apply as easily. So, before you gear up for your day of skiing, remember to "Bubble Up" your gear.

Following is the link for our Sports Pack, it provides a nice mix of label styles, some of them have extra room for contact information in addition to a name for those big ticket items. http://www.namebubbles.com/labelpack/sports-labels.html

Bubble Up Your Bags

2009-02-01T12:52:00.007-05:00

Do you have a black medium sized suitcase? Yep, me too. Do you find yourself leaning over the shoulder of the person standing next to you at baggage claim - perhaps straining your eyes to look for something that makes your bag stand out from the others? Well, I did at one point.

Since I've bubbled my bags, baggage claim is a lot less stressful. I can spot my bags or luggage from a good distance and I know my name is securely stuck, even if the identification tags are torn loose.

This big label (Big Bubble) is one of two styles that Name Bubbles offers. They are personalized with the information that you want to show, if you prefer a cell number or e-mail address that will work too. Before you take your next trip, you may want to think about bubbling your bags. Visit www.namebubbles.com to view our Big Bubble and Super Bubble waterproof labels.

More Than A Laundry Safe Label - Have Fun With The Bitty Bubble

2009-01-13T17:04:00.000-05:00

Growing up with sisters, you learn to hide your favorite lipsticks and nail polish - these things had a way of disappearing. Some of it was probably left at a friends house, and yes, I was guilty of pillaging myself.

So, when mom needed to settle those disputes over whose Bonnie Bell Watermelon lip balm it was, a painful ordeal took place for the young parties involved.

Later in college, I really honed the skills of preservation. My favorite bottles and sticks of color would be quietly tucked away. Sometimes I was careless, I would leave something behind and I understood that no-one would know who to return it to, the rules of "Finders-Keepers" would come into play.

For these times, and to avoid the rule of "Finders-Keepers", we recommend our Bitty Bubbles. We love these little guys. A fun and durable waterproof label, small enough to go on the bottom of your favorite nail polish and cute enough to stick and press on your cosmetics.

We originally designed these labels for laundry care tags but they are super practical for so many other items. You'll receive 112 bitty bubbles in a book, a lot of waterproof labels for a great price. http://www.namebubbles.com/labels/laundry-safe-labels.html

Name Bubbles Uses An Eco-Friendly Ink

2009-01-02T20:51:00.001-05:00

During our search for the right printing process, we found a wonderful non-toxic, eco-friendly ink that is virtually odorless and doesn't require any special ventilation or environmental equipment. The Name Bubbles Team loves this ink; it creates great labels without affecting our work space or the environment.

We also know that our waterproof labels are sticking with us and our loved ones all day, especially the laundry safe labels that are attached to our little one's clothing.

As labels are printed, the eco-friendly ink and the vinyl labels are fused together creating high-quality, durable dishwasher safe labels and laundry safe labels. http://www.namebubbles.com/labels.html

Name Bubbles Labels - The Durable Waterproof Label

2008-12-17T17:05:00.001-05:00

Located in upstate New York, the Name Bubbles team have our share of winter stories. Luckily, I have a husband who loves to ski and made sure I gave it a try when we moved to Saratoga Springs.

Skiing has become our weekly ritual, driving an hour back and forth to the mountain. Because of this, I thought my rocket box (on the top of my car) would be a perfect place to show just how durable our waterproof Name Bubbles labels are.

I will be updating this post once a month with a new picture of the same giant label until springtime, when the rocket box is taken off.

I grew up in a very mild climate, unless you live in cold conditions it is very difficult to explain how cold it gets. I am hoping my pictures of the ice and snow well show just how durable our waterproof (and weatherproof) labels are. http://www.namebubbles.com/labels/dishwasher-safe-waterproof-labels.html

A Cookie Exchange Must - The Oreo Truffle

2008-12-13T18:24:00.000-05:00

I have a fabulous sister-in-law who does wonders in the kitchen. She plays down her cooking but I love our visits, I am always being introduced to something tasty and usually pretty simple.

She is a full-time geology professor and calls this creation "Armored Mud Balls" (Oreo Truffles). Though she covers her truffles in white chocolate I tend to like the darker version; they look and taste great either way. One issue, you need a food processor - if you don't have one, this recipe may be the reason to get one.

1) One bag of Oreo Cookies
2) One package of cream cheese
3) One bag of chocolate chips (I use Nestle's Semi-Sweet)

Put all of the Oreo Cookies in a big Ziploc bag and smash them (this was a fun treat for my 2-yr old - I gave him a ladle and let him smash away)
Combine the cream cheese and cookie crumbs in the food processor until the mixture is a consistent, well lets say...giant mud ball
Using a teaspoon, gather a little portion of the mix and roll it in the palm of your hand until it is a round ball - you should have between 75 to 80 balls when you are done
Melt the chocolate chips in a double-boiler or heat up water in a sauce pan and place a stainless steal bowl over the water. The chips will melt quickly in the stainless steal bowl even over low heat. Make sure the water isn't too hot, you don't want steam or moisture getting into the bowl of chocolate, it will seize up and you will have to start over.
Using 2 spoons, cover the Oreo mixture with your melted chocolate of choice and place on wax or parchment paper when you have finished each one. Turn on a little music and know that this may take a little time - it moves faster and can be fun once you get the hang of it.
Place the truffles in the freezer for 10 mins to set the chocolate

Find a bunch of decorative tins or bags and place a dozen or so treats inside for a tasty holiday bite. Try our durable Fun Stickies on the outside of the tins, I chose the bi-level style, "Happy Holidays" on the top line and "The Brandriss Family" is on the bottom line. A personalized label ensures that the message will be received, even if the card gets lost in the holiday shuffle. http://www.namebubbles.com/labels/fun-stickies.html

Name Bubbles Allergy Alert Labels - Gentle Reminders

2008-12-10T16:13:00.000-05:00

My youngest son has a peanut allergy.

The allergy is not life threatening but he does immediately vomit and develop a rash, so we take precautions and keep all things peanut on the top shelves and away from his usual treats.

Because my husband and older step-son love peanut butter (and all things peanut), we've kept it in our home but I often find myself repeating the same information to relatives who are visiting or babysitters.

I've started using Name Bubbles Allergy Alert Label (Fun Stickies version) on the peanut butter jar in the cabinet and trail mix bags on the snack shelf. Though I always inform anyone new of the allergy, it has been a great tool and a gentle reminder for all of the loved ones coming and going. http://www.namebubbles.com/labelpack/medical-alert-labels.html

About Name Bubbles

2008-12-08T17:06:00.000-05:00

You guessed it - we're parents too!

After years of using other people's labels, we decided to make our own. In fact, I happen to love labeling - it makes me really happy. Anything that I can do to help keep track of the many things one needs to remember with a little one while adding a little personality is a huge win-win.

Though I was happy with the durability of the waterproof vinyl labels a few businesses were using, I really wanted more design styles and colors. I felt like all the labels in the daycare class looked the same, the boy pack and the girl pack.

So, in addition for getting more for your money, we've expanded the design choices, color palettes, label sizes.

Our waterproof labels (Dishwasher Safe and Laundry Safe) are made to stick through some pretty serious conditions. The Fun Stickies are also made of a superior vinyl label but have a water-resistant backing.

All of our labels are created with a non-toxic, soy based ink that infuses to all of the vinyl labels when they are produced, making them all durable and tough for a family to use.

We know, there is a perfect bubble waiting for you.

Loving the Crock Pot

2008-12-08T16:17:00.000-05:00

A big "thank you" is in order for my weekly mom's group - I've dubbed it "Breakfast at Tiffany's". An impromptu mom's group and play date at Tiffany's house that serves coffee and a stress-free environment for a half-a-dozen moms and little ones.

So, I noticed Tiffany would always have a something cooking in the crock pot during our morning get togethers. I actually have one and love it but it usually seems like such a bother digging it out and planning a meal a day or two in advance. Well, I recently started crocking again, thanks to Tiffany, and a few of the other moms have started.

We've been e-mailing our successes to one another. If you have a Crock Pot recipe that's easy and good - please post it. I am sure there are a lot of crocking moms that would love to give a new recipe a try.

The first recipe from the "Breakfast at Tiffany's" gang:

Pulled Pork

Pork shoulder (about 3 pounds)
Dinosaur BBQ sauce (yes, it has to be this brand OR homemade to your specifications, I've done both)
Hot sauce Apple Cider Vinegar Cole slaw (buy shredded cabbage and mix with Marie Callender's cole slaw dressing - as good as homemade)

Put pork shoulder in crock pot with 1/2 bottle of BBQ sauce, and a few dashes of hot sauce. Cook all day on low. After about eight hours, shred pork and reserve 1 cup of the drippings in the crock pot. Mix drippings with 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and dashes of hot sauce. Mix the dripping mixture in with the shredded pork. Then mix remaining BBQ sauce with 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and more hot sauce. Assemble sandwiches with pork, cole slaw, and top with a few dashes of the BBQ sauce/vinegar/hot sauce mixture.

Tastes great - super fast and easy.